Abyssinian
A wild looking cat, the Abyssinian is thought to be one of the oldest breeds in the world. Though paintings of them have been found in ancient Egyptian art, their exact origins are unclear. Some believe they came from Ethiopia (formerly called Abyssinia) and others believe they originated from areas near the coast of India. Whatever the origins, Abyssinians were imported to England where they were refined by breeders. Abyssinians are average sized cats of a medium build, weighing about eight to ten pounds and living anywhere from thirteen to twenty years. Described as resembling a Puma or a Cougar, Abyssinians have medium length coats that are dense and have markings similar to a tabby cat. The coats can come in several colors, ruddy (burnt sienna), red, sorrel (burnt orange), blue (soft blue and apricot), and fawn (pinkish beige and oatmeal) with even ticking. Abyssinians are described as very independent and intelligent. They are not considered lap cats and hate being confined, but Abyssinians are sociable creatures that will get along well with humans and other pets.
